Driver charged with pedestrian’s death

Mar 31, 2009 News

Thirty-one year-old Andrew Williams, of West Ruimveldt, who is accused of driving his motor vehicle in a dangerous manner which resulted in the death of Motiram Persaud, was yesterday granted bail in the sum of $400,000.00 when he made an appearance before Acting Chief Magistrate Melissa Robertson.
The incident occurred on March 24.
Williams pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was represented by Attorney at Law Mark Waldron, who in a bail application, told the court that his client is married with five children who are all minors.
The lawyer further told the court that Williams is gainfully employed as a seaman, adding that he has worked in that profession for the past six years.
According to Waldron, on the day in question, the defendant was proceeding in the vicinity of Oleander Gardens, and the deceased was standing on the median between the two carriageways.
The lawyer explained that the pedestrian just stepped into the flow of traffic and was hit by the defendant’s car.
According to the lawyer, Williams had been placed on $60,000 station bail with the surety that he returns to court. Waldron said that his client’s presence in court showed good faith.
Police Prosecutor Seetaram did not oppose bail, but asked that it be set at a substantial amount. Bail was granted in the sum of $400,000.00 and the accused is expected to make his next court appearance on Thursday.
The matter was also transferred to the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court.
On Tuesday last, Persaud was struck down by a vehicle, which was allegedly driven by Williams.
According to bystanders, Persaud stepped off the median that divided the two carriageways and was struck by the vehicle.
Upon impact, the 44-year-old victim was thrown some distance. The police arrived on the scene soon after and took Persaud to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.